YOSEMITE elopement photographeRS

turning your love story into

ENCHANTING

visual masterpiece that echoes through time

YOSEMITE elopement photographeRS

turning your love story into

ENCHANTING

visual masterpiece that echoes through time

Proudly Featured in:

Featured on Brides magazine
Featured on Looks Like Film
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Featured on Insider
Featured on Huffington Post
Featured on Rangefinder Magazine
Featured on Green Wedding Shoes

HELLO,

WE’RE HENRY & SERGIO AND WE’RE COMMITTED TO YOUR YOSEMITE elopement EXPERIENCE

Henry Tieu & Sergio - Elopement Photographers
couple eloped at Yosemite kissed Henry Tieu, their elopement photographer

We’re one of the original elopement photographers before elopements became popular. Since 2018, we’ve helped over 200 couples elope in Yosemite National Park and across the world.

Although our main duty is capturing you and your love in the most breath-taking landscapes, we are more than just photographers. We help couples craft an intentional experience that allows honest emotions to reveal themselves because everyone deserve to truly and fully immerse themselves into the day that commemorates the beginning of something new, magical, and worth every second living for.

Just like where you are today, we each also went through wedding planning with our own life partner.

We learned that at the core of who we are as humans, we already know how we want to live, to love, to experience this life.

But somehow, the external noises of expectations can often drown out what we truly believe in – and this happens quite often when it comes to weddings.

We want to empower you through the whole journey of wedding & elopement planning

Here are some places you might have seen our work on adventure elopement photography and how we’ve helped couples like yourselves:

CONTACT US
Sergio from Henry Tieu Photography photographing wedding couple at sunset

World’s Best Wedding Photography 2019 – 2022 | Judge of World’s Best Wedding Photos 2023 Rangefinder Magazine’s 30 Rising Stars of Wedding Photography | Looks Like Film’s Artist Of The Year | World’s Best Wedding Photography 2019 – 2022 | Judge of World’s Best Wedding Photos 2023 Rangefinder Magazine’s 30 Rising Stars of Wedding Photography | Looks Like Film’s Artist Of The Year |

WHY ELOPE IN YOSEMITE?

Adventurous yosemite Elopement – Epic Love Deserves An Epic Location

We photograph love the way love naturally occurs: organically and tenderly. On your elopement day, you should be able to forget the world and just be with the one(s) who matters the most

So trust us to be there to celebrate you and with you. To hold your hands, to cry with you, and to create memories that will last a lifetime for you

We are inspired by your story, your voice, the way the wind touches your face, the way you look into each other’s eyes and tell each other your vows.

Yosemite National Park was the very first destination elopement we’ve photographed and although it’s gained popularity over the year. Yosemite still has a special place in our hearts.

Nestled in the heart of California’ Sierra Nevada mountains, what we love most about Yosemite are the towering granites of Half Dome and El Capitan, the cascading waterfalls that somehow always put out the most vibrant rainbows from its mist, and the sounds of nature when it’s mixed with couple’s vows.

Although we’ve been here countless times, Yosemite continues to surprise us with breathtaking views every time. Yes that iconic Taft Point location is a must for every elopement, but we also think you’re going to love wandering through the giant sequoias in Mariposa Grove and star-gazing at Glacier Point

If you think you’ve seen it all, wait till we help plan your elopement and share with you the beauty of Yosemite. Let us guide you through this magical land and create unforgettable memories for your elopement experience.

Bride and groom walking through El Capitan Meadow with lanterns for Yosemite Elopement
YOSEMITE ELOPEMENT AT TAFT POINT
tunnel view yosemite elopement
Death Valley Elopement with milky way and stars
couple eloped at yosemite at glacier point
Yosemite elopement in the valley with golden fall colors
Fall color in Yosemite as couple eloped in California

YOSEMITE’S MOST BEAUTIFUL ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS & PLANNING RESOURCES

Elopement Guest Etiquette 101

Attending an elopement as a guest is a special honor. Read this guide to learn elopement guest do’s and don’ts and learn our top elopement guest etiquette tips.

How to Plan Your National Park Elopement and Wedding

National park elopements are a great way to combine your love for the outdoors with an intentional wedding experience. quickly become a popular choice for couples looking to elope in nature. Visit the blog to learn how to plan your national park elopement and see the top places to elope in a national park.

Bursting Elopement Myths: 6 Misconceptions about Modern Elopements

Want to know the truth about elopements? There are so many ideas about what an elopement is or isn’t or what they should or shouldn’t be. The meaning of the word has changed over the years and the modern day elopement looks very different from the original meaning of the word. Read this blog post to discover some elopement myths and learn more about what today’s elopements actually look like. | Adventure Elopement Photographer | Elopement Myths | Elopement Wedding
death valley national park desert elopement

How to Elope in California [Updated for 2024]

What scenery do you envision for your elopement? Chances are whatever you’re dreaming of California has it! From deserts to beaches to forests this state has it all. Learn what it’s like to elope in California!
VIEW ALL ELOPEMENT PLANNING RESOURCES

yosemite Wedding & Elopement Stories

Bride and groom couple portraits on the beach in Santa Cruz, California

California Micro Wedding at Sequoia Retreat Center

Jen and Craig’s California micro wedding took place at one of the most beautiful forest wedding venues in Northern California! Visit the blog to see more from their forest wedding ceremony and adventure photos on the beach!
VIEW MORE ELOPEMENT STORIES

KIND WORDS

To him, it’s more than just a business transaction. We felt like we gained a lifetime friend!

To say that Henry is an amazing photographer is quite the understatement. Henry is the best, truly. Aside from saying yes to marrying my husband (lol), asking Henry to photograph our elopement was the next best decision I ever made. Our ceremony took place in Yosemite National Park. He did all the research and laid out the logistics such as timing/locations for us. In other words, he did all the heavy lifting to make sure that everything went smoothly on our day. Not only is Henry super friendly and professional, he also makes you feel so comfortable. After spending the day with him, my husband and I seriously felt as if we had known him for 10+ years. This is so important because we felt completely open and comfortable with him the whole day. When you’re able to get on that level with your wedding photographer, it makes a huge difference. Not to mention, you can just tell that Henry is truly passionate about his work. Not only that, he also cares about his clients. To him, it’s more than just a business transaction. We felt like we gained a lifetime friend!

Speaking of photos. I mean, are you kidding me? He might actually be a wizard. The photos are just unreal. I have said this so many times, but I’ll say it again, Henry is the best!

julie & calvin | eloped in at yosemite national park

married couple eloping at yosemite and henry tieu photography

GET STARTED

5 TIPS FOR YOUR YOSEMITE ELOPEMENT EXPERIENCE

1) Anyone can elope but elopement is not for everyone. You don’t want to regret your wedding day. Read these 6 things to consider before eloping

2) Plan early in order to guarantee a wedding permit (applicable for all locations inside Yosemite National Parks and at nearby National Forests)

3) There are more than just the popular locations you found online. Consult with your elopement photographer for more beautiful locations and for the best planning strategies.

4) Learn about Leave No Trace in order to have a beautiful elopement without hurting the beautiful landscape we are in.

5) Explore these Elopement Planning Resources to brainstorm for what you can do to have a beautiful and unique elopement.

For info on marriage license, places to elope, and everything else you need to know, check out the The Ultimate Yosemite National Park Elopement Guide

CONTACT US FOR YOUR ELOPEMENT

KIND WORDS

We wish we could go back to enjoy the best day ever and we would undoubtedly pick Sergio all over again to be our photographer

There is no doubt that Sergio deserves 5 stars. His work is absolutely incredible. We were both in awe when we received our photos and honestly so was all of our friends and family! Not only that, but we’re both not photogenic and have never taken professional photos so we were nervous on the day of our elopement about how we would feel with a camera on us all day. But honestly Sergio’s personality was so familiar that we were comfortable right away with taking photos by him. He is so easy going and provided us with support and great direction during and before the day of our elopement.

lauren & austin | eloped at tunnel view & yosemite valley

yosemite valley with waterfall views for bride and groom

MORE THAN JUST PACKAGES, IT’S A PARTNERSHIP

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN EVERY YOSEMITE ELOPEMENT & WEDDING PACKAGE

Here’s how we help you embrace the unwritten chapters of your elopement experience

VIEW FULL PRICING
01

Document THE REAL YOU by Henry or Sergio:

From multiple phone calls and meetings to customized questionnaires, our goal is to get to know you so we can document what’s real and important

No elopement is the same. We photograph you with YOU in mind. There won’t be fake laughs or stiff poses. We believe in capturing candids & documentary moments mixed with personalized guidance for portraits that reflect you, your love, and the beautiful sceneries around you.

02

Unlimited Guides and Resources:

Complementary consultations and planning assistance from us including locations, timelines, what to pack, and vendor recommendations

50+ Page Elopement Guide filled with tips and information to help you navigate through this process from day 1 to the day you receive your photos back.

Questionnaires and Elopement Checklists to help you keep track of every important detail.

Whether you book Henry or Sergio, we have an entire team behind every beautiful elopement. All of us communicate with each other every day and help each other with location scouting, permit research, unique finds on accommodations and hidden gems. Overall, when you hire one of us, you get all of us.

03

A Personalized Elopement Experience:

Each couple is unique and so are their stories. This means each elopement experience needs to be personalized to truly reflect what love means for each couple. You’ll get access to our client-only Planning Portal so we don’t miss a beat

04

The Breath-taking Award Winning Photos and the Heart-Warming Moments

We document your days with 2 priorities in mind: Storytelling & Art. We want each photo and the whole gallery to be able to transport you right back to the day that signified the beginning of your next chapter. Regardless of which package you choose, we don’t limit the amount of photos you’ll receive.

GIFs, double exposures, creative imagery and drone (where legally allowed) are all included without additional fees

We carefully go through each photo we capture to make sure every important moment is preserved. Then each photo will be artistically edited and in high resolution

You have personal printing rights and Your custom online gallery with UNLIMITED DOWNLOADS is private and secured

And of course, all kind of fun sneak peak because just like you, we are excited to see these heart-warming moments

05

No Additional Travel Fees:

Our own travel costs are all included in each package so we can get to all the locations you’ve dreamed of. Our inclusive pricing is to make sure you don’t have to worry about inflation, changes in airfares or in gas pricing.

No extra fees. No hidden fees.

Your Elopement Day Is Your Wedding Day

And You Deserve An Experience That is Honest, Meaningful, and Memorable

CONTACT US FOR YOUR YOSEMITE ELOPEMENT

more answers to your

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We operate fully on transparency and empowerment. We believe that YOUR elopement day is YOUR wedding day and this day will forever be a part of you and your legacy. It signifies the beginning of your next chapter and hold significant meanings to every aspect of your life.

Therefore, you deserve a photographer whom you can truly connect with as they are the one who’s in charge of fleeting moments and memories of your day

We hope we can be your Yosemite Elopement Photographers but We STRONGLY believe that you should look around for options, view each photographer’s portfolio, read their reviews, and talk with them in order to really have a clear picture of how they work and how they can help you. Each photographer’s approach to wedding photography is like their DNA, it’s an extension of who they are

For us, we focus on an INTENTIONAL EXPERIENCE & ARTFUL PHOTOGRAPHS. In order to do so, we do more than just photography. We’ll be there with with you every step of the way to help you though this journey

We also believe in the power of your story, what makes you unique, and what you value rather than how you look or how your photos should look because of trends.

To learn more about what it’s like to work with us, view our Elopement Experience.

Late Spring to Fall (June – October) are truly the best time to visit Yosemite and elope here as the weather is mild and you can access all the beautiful places without worrying too much about unexpected weather or road closures. However, those months also mean the park is also busier than other months. Therefore, they often have rules on entry permit and we also strongly recommend eloping on week days instead of weekends. Don’t let that worry you, we’ll be there to help you navigate all the requirements

One of the most unique experience at Yosemite is to witness the firefall where you’ll see the vibrant red/orange colors from the sunset casting onto Horsetail Fall. This phenomenal occurs in February and can be so magical to witness. With that said, February also means snow in higher elevation inside Yosemite National Park.

Just like elopements anywhere in nature, keep in mind that Yosemite’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to have a backup plan and be prepared for any surprises. And of course we’ll be there every step of the way to help you plan for the unexpected and unknowns

One hundred percent. Elopement isn’t just about running away or keeping it all a secret. It should be an experience where you can enjoy the whole day with whomever you would like to be there. Therefore, for us, we consider elopements and intimate weddings the same.

Although we don’t limit the amount of guests you should have, Yosemite National Park do have restrictions on your total guest size depending on the exact location to protect trails and native plants.

We’ve noticed that a guest list of about 30 or less can still ensure a low-stress experience. If you are interested in having more than 30 guests, we can always chat to figure out a location and a plan to give you the best experience and photos.

You can elope without photography for as low as $60 (marriage license cost) or up to $33,900+ (with vendors, locations, etc…). How much your elopement will cost depends on what what you want to experience and your guest size. At a minimum, you’ll need wedding attires and a photographer.

We have an entire blog post on how much does it cost to elope that also includes a handy elopement calculator.

Our Yosemite elopement packages start at $6,900. To learn more about everything that’s included in our services and how we can help, please visit our Pricing Page.

You can apply for your marriage license online 90 days before your elopement date. California requires an ordained officiant and 1 witness (unlike many other States that often require 2 witnesses). We will be there every step of the way to help you with important deadlines to make sure your elopement experience not only legal but also magical. For a full guide on how to elope in California, read our guide here.

In addition, you will also need a wedding permit to have a ceremony inside Yosemite National Park, read our The Ultimate Yosemite National Park Elopement Guide for full details.

Most of our elopements average between 6-10 hours but how many hours you need will depend on how many locations you want to experience, how many guests you would like to have, and what activities you would like to experience for your elopement day.

A half-day elopement is around 6 – 8 hrs. Couples interested in both sunrise and sunset or multiple locations book a full day (10+ hrs.) Couples who want both a wedding experience where they spend the whole day with guests and also an elopement experience where they can spend private time together on a separate day book us for 2 days.

See our elopement packages for additional information and if you have any additional questions or are ready to book, send us a message and let’s get started!

Adventure elopements for us aren’t always about hiking. We believe that YOU DON’T NEED TO HIKE TO HAVE A BEAUTIFUL ELOPEMENT DAY

If hiking is what you enjoy, we’ll be ready with our hiking boots and some snacks to share. However, if it’s not something you love, we can certainly help find easy access locations for you and your family.

Mountain elopements can range from minimal walk and up to 6 miles total (for example, Glacier Point is just a short walk whereas Taft Point is around 2.5 miles total). Locations down in the Yosemite Valley feels more like walking in a local city park (but with breath-taking landscapes and cute wild animals of course).

If you’re looking to hike, we recommend no more than 2-3 miles each way since hiking for an elopement experience is different from hiking for fun as you’ll be carrying gears and outfits you’d typically not have. We’ll be there with resources and packing list to make sure you are prepared.

  1. Once you’ve decided that eloping is for you, reach out to us on our contact page.
  2. We’ll get on a call to get to know each other and for us to share with you more knowledge, details, tips and resources.
  3. Once we figure out the best date for the best weather at your dream location, we’ll prepare a contract in order to reserve that date right away.
  4. After that, we go into planning mode together to make sure this experience is personalized and customized to your vision and your needs.

Trust us, it is as easy as it sounds 🙂

testimonials

Love Letters from Our Happy Couples

creative artful wedding photo at yosemite national park

HAILEY & SHAUN

SUNSET ELOPEMENT AT YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

If you’re looking for someone to photograph your elopement, look no further, you’ve found it. I can confidently say you can rest easy knowing you chose Henry Tieu Photography. My husband and I had the pleasure of working with Sergio for our Yosemite elopement this past week. From the moment we got on our initial FaceTime meeting with Sergio, we felt at ease. He did a fantastic job learning about us as a couple, rather than just treating us like a business transaction. The whole process was absolutely seamless from start to finish.

Although we live in California we were saving the beauty of Yosemite NP for our wedding day. Sergio was SO extremely helpful with providing us lists of housing, hair vendors, makeup vendors, food vendors, you name it. We found out a few months prior that our chosen ceremony location couldn’t accommodate our guest list. Sergio was so quick to send us other options. Which in turn worked out better than our original plan ❤️ about a month out he had a whole timeline written out for our wedding day. I can’t stress how much of a relief this was. Not to mention the stress it took off of us, knowing exactly what our day would look like from start to finish. It makes it much easier to coordinate a timeline for your friends & family if they are joining.

The day of flew by like a flash. We went from camera shy to identifying as models ✨😂 Sergio felt like so much more than just a photographer. He was a friend. We felt so incredibly comfortable working with him. For people who are virtually never in front of the camera (zero social media) I couldn’t help but feel we looked the same in every photo. I’ll go ahead and be the first to tell you, IGNORE THIS FEELING. We got our sneak peeks a few days back, and when I tell you I was absolutely floored. The photos are beyond incredible. GORGEOUS. Something you would see on the cover of a magazine. I don’t think I’ve looked away since we opened the email. We could not be more thankful that we chose Sergio to capture our wedding day. We truly owe this man our life. So again, THANK YOU SERGIO! The photos speak for themselves! You fricken kiddin’ me 😍

FULL DAY ELOPEMENT AT YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

michelle & karli

SUNRISE & SUNSET ELOPEMENT AT YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

If you have been looking for the best wedding photographer, look no further! I cannot put into words how AMAZING it was working with Sergio. He made a destination elopement such a breeze.
We had a small wedding in Yosemite National Park in California. We had never been there before, and Sergio took all the weight off our shoulders when it came to all the research and hassles of a destination wedding. He sent us vendor references, air bnb ideas, and a detailed timeline of our wedding day. As many other reviews have said, Sergio was basically our wedding coordinator. If you are looking for a photographer who literally does it ALL, Sergio is your guy! The wedding day, Sergio made both of us feel so comfortable and not awkward at all. We both do not like to be the center of attention and do not like to be photographed but there was never an awkward moment between us and Sergio. He was literally running around on the mountain side trying to get the best pictures and best angles. He even asked for some songs that we liked and brought a speaker and played them while he took pictures of us to make us feel more comfortable and relaxed. If you are looking for a photographer who does the little things, once again, Sergio is your guy! We could not stop talking about how much fun we had even though we were freezing our asses off in the 30-degree weather all day in wedding dresses lol. Now for the pictures because I know that’s what everyone wants to hear about. As soon as we opened the email our jaws dropped. The pictures were absolutely breathtaking. We still get compliments about them and how they’re the most beautiful pictures they have ever seen. Along with the photographs, Sergio sent us a few GIFs as well. Those were so fun to see because we were not expecting those at all, and they turned out so cute! If you want a photographer who truly cares about you and your experience, look no further. Sergio, thank you so much for making this day truly special for the both of us. We will cherish these photographs forever and relive these moments through these photographs.

double exposure creative elopement photos in california

cindy & daniel

SUNSET ELOPEMENT AT TAFT POINT, YOSEMITE

MAGICAL. That’s the word that best describes our elopement and our experience with Sergio. We came all the way to Yosemite from Florida to have an intimate ceremony in the most epic place we could think of and we also chose the most epic photographer! He is the nicest guy and truly an artist.

We were a little nervous about the whole thing, especially not being super comfortable in front of the camera but he made us feel so comfortable and made sure our photo shoot flowed really well.

Sergio was very helpful throughout the whole process and recommended our officiant Donny, who was also amazing.

Thank you for hiking back in the darkness with us Sergio! Lol

We have only gotten our sneaks so far and they are absolutely incredible. Can’t wait to see the entire gallery.
Could not recommend Henry and Sergio enough!!!
If we could give more than 5 stars, we would.
🙂